Cardiopulmonary Services

Through its Cardiopulmonary Department, Gifford offers comprehensive diagnostic services for the heart and lungs for both inpatients and outpatients utilizing state-of-the-art equipment. Services available include:Pulmonary Function Tests A pulmonary function test is a series of breathing tests to diagnose lung issues such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).Cardiac Stress Tests Cardiac stress tests are used to identify and diagnose blockages in the heart vessels. Patient may be asked to walk on a treadmill while monitored or to have both a treadmill and nuclear medicine study.Holter/Event Monitors Holter/event monitors are devices worn anywhere from 24 hours to 30 days. They are used to identify heart rhythm issues.Electroencephalogram (EEG) An EEG is a noninvasive test that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain by placing small electrodes on the patient’s scalp. This test is most commonly used to diagnosis seizure disorders and are read by our neurologist.Echocardiography An echocardiography is a sophisticated ultrasound of the heart. The test is noninvasive and provides a detailed assessment of the heart’s chambers and valves. This test is the cornerstone for diagnosing and managing many heart conditions. Expert cardiologists at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center interpret the studies.Cardiac Rehabilitation Cardiac rehabilitation helps patients following a heart attack, other heart illness or heart surgery build strength and endurance. This program is offered over a series of weeks and includes exercise with specially-trained nurses, education and nutrition advice to return patients to good physical, mental and social health. The program also aims to help people better understand and adapt to their coronary artery disease and reduce risk factors for future heart disease through lifestyle changes. Learn lots more by downloading our Cardiac Rehabilitation brochure.Pulmonary Rehabilitation Pulmonary rehabilitation is for individuals with lung disease, such as COPD. Patients are evaluated to determine if the therapy is appropriate for them and then a specific program is created for each person’s starting abilities and individualized goals. Like Cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation is offered over a period of weeks. The program combines monitored exercise and education to decrease symptoms and hospitalizations, increase exercise tolerance and improve quality of life.To learn more about these programs and testing, call the Cardiopulmonary Department at Gifford at (802) 728-2222 or ask your health care provider for a referral.